Blood Pressure Cuff Size and Placement
Measuring and logging guide ยท Last reviewed November 2, 2026
The cuff is the part of a home measurement people most often get slightly wrong. A cuff that does not fit, or that sits in the wrong place, can change the numbers.
Measure your arm
Most manufacturers give a range of arm sizes for each cuff, measured around the middle of the upper arm. Measure yours with a soft tape and check it against the range printed in the monitor's manual or on the cuff.
Too small or too large
A cuff that is too small for your arm, or too large, can give misleading readings. If the cuff will not close comfortably or looks loose, look for a different size from the manufacturer.
Placement
- Wrap the cuff around your bare upper arm, not over clothing.
- Position the lower edge of the cuff about an inch above the bend of your elbow.
- Line up the artery marker on the cuff with the inside of your arm, if your cuff has one.
- The cuff should be snug, with room for about one finger underneath.
Support your arm
Rest your arm on a table with the cuff at about heart level, palm up, and keep still during the measurement.
Use the same arm
Stick to one arm unless your clinician tells you otherwise, so readings stay comparable.
Read the full checklist in how to take your blood pressure at home.